Call for greater attention on palliative care

KOTA BHARU, Nov  7 (Bernama)  -- Palliative care in the country needs greater attention, said advisor to the Health Ministry on palliative care, Dr Richard Lim Boon Leong.

Dr Richard said  this year alone, 70 per cent of patients with chronic illnesses like end stage cancer, heart, lung and kidney failure died.

"Most end up bedridden at home and require palliative care from support groups including health workers from NGOs and the community after they are  advised to leave hospitals. Unfortunately, this service is very limited in the country and needs much more attention,” he said.

He was speaking to reporters after attending the Kelantan Palliative Care Conference 2018 at Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia (HUSM) Kubang Kerian here today.

The conference was opened by Kelantan Health Department director  Dr Zaini Hussin. 

-- BERNAMA